“I congratulate Alvin Fiddler on his election as Grand Chief of the largest political territorial organization in the Ontario region,” said National Chief Perry Bellegarde. “Grand Chief Fiddler has a strong commitment to upholding rights and a dedicated vision for addressing gaps in services for First Nations, especially in health, justice and policing. I look forward to working with Grand Chief Fiddler and supporting those efforts at the national level.”

NAN Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler was elected in the first ballot yesterday by NAN Chiefs at the 34th Annual Keewaywin Conference in Aroland First Nation. He replaces former Grand Chief Harvey Yesno.

Alvin Fiddler was raised in Muskrat Dam and has lived in a number of NAN communities. He has more than 20 years of leadership experience, including three terms as NAN Deputy Grand Chief. Grand Chief Fiddler has made major contributions in the areas of health policy and planning, justice, community healing and wellness, and the priorities of women and youth. He has led advocacy efforts for a number of justice initiatives, including inquests into the Ipperwash, Goudge, the Kashechewan fire and the tragic death of student deaths in the NAN region, as well as the Iacobucci Review.

“I commend the work of former Grand Chief Harvey Yesno and his long-standing leadership in NAN territory and the region,” said National Chief Bellegarde. “His commitment and dedication to achieving self-determination through sustainable business and economic opportunities and community institutions provides a solid foundation for continued efforts in this area in NAN territory and across the region and country.”

Three Deputy Grand Chiefs Anna Betty Achneepineskum, Derek Fox and Terry Waboose, were also elected in Aroland late yesterday to round out the NAN Executive Council.

Nishnawbe Aski Nation is a political territorial organization representing 49 First Nation communities in Treaty 9 and Treaty 5 territory in Ontario.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Comms, @AFN_Updates.

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August 12, 2015 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALVIN FIDDLER ELECTED NAN GRAND CHIEF

AROLAND FIRST NATION: Chiefs and proxies from Nishnawbe Aski Nation’s (NAN) 49First Nation communities elected Alvin Fiddler, of Muskrat Dam First Nation, as GrandChief this afternoon during the XXXIV Keewaywin Conference.

“I am honoured to be elected Grand Chief and it is humbling to receive such a strongmandate from our Chiefs. I am inspired by the leadership of our Chiefs and the spirit of ourcitizens and I believe that by working together there is nothing we cannot achieve,” saidGrand Chief Alvin Fiddler, who has previously served three terms as Deputy Grand Chief(2003-2006, 2006-2009, 2012-2015). “There are many expectations of this ExecutiveCouncil and I look forward to hitting the ground running to address the many issues facingour communities. We will ensure that all NAN members, especially our youth, are fullyengaged as we work together for a better future for people and our communities.”

Grand Chief Fiddler was elected along with three Deputy Grand Chiefs who are responsiblefor specific portfolios at NAN including education, health, justice and governance.